Indiana is favored against Northwestern in Week 4 of the college football season.

The defending National Champions, the Indiana Hoosiers, are off to a 3-0 start to their 2026 season. They have taken care of business in each game, but have yet to face a legitimate opponent. Their first three games have come against North Texas, Howard, and Western Kentucky, winning by a combined score of 145-16.

They'll take a step up in competition in Week 4 when they begin their Big Ten schedule against the 2-0 Northwestern Wildcats. Northwestern had a Week 2 bye, but defeated South Dakota State in Week 1 and then trounced Colorado 41-7 in Week 3.

Let's dive into the odds and my best bet for this Big Ten matchup.

Odds via FanDuel Sportsbook

Josh Hoover, Indiana's new quarterback transfer from TCU, has passed the first test. He has looked phenomenal against inferior opponents. Through the first three games, he has completed 72.5% of passes for 649 yards, 10 touchdowns, and no interceptions. His next test is going to be how he is going to perform against Big Ten competition, so we'll get some more answers about whether or not he can lead Indiana on a deep playoff run this weekend when he takes on this Wildcats' defense.

I'm going to take the points with Northwestern in this spot. I think Indiana may be a touch overrated in the betting market this week, coming off three big wins against non-power conference teams. The Wildcats have at least faced a power conference team in Colorado, and they exceeded expectations, winning by 34 points.

The Wildcats' defense has looked solid as well, allowing just 5.8 yards per play this season.

Indiana should win relatively sweat-free, but 21 points is a lot to ask, even for the defending champs. Give me the points with the Wildcats.

Pick: Northwestern +21 (-106) via Caesars

Follow Iain on X and Instagram

You can check out all of Iain's bets here!

Create a new FanDuel Sportsbook account, and you can get up to $1,000 in bonus bets. Register now and make a $5 wager each day for five days to claim your FanDuel promo code offer today.

Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.